Community Reviews

This is the new, clearer and better edited version of Glasser & Easely's last book by the same name. Although their "Nurtured Heart Approach" was started as a means of helping challenging children adjust to life with the rest of us, the methods work like a charm with children at all levels of intensity. I thought this version was truly outstanding. The message is simple, but still profound enough to make changes throughout the family. Without spilling all the beans, I will say that the ta This is the new, clearer and better edited version of Glasser & Easely's last book by the same name. Although their "Nurtured Heart Approach" was started as a means of helping challenging children adjust to life with the rest of us, the methods work like a charm with children at all levels of intensity. I thought this version was truly outstanding. The message is simple, but still profound enough to make changes throughout the family. Without spilling all the beans, I will say that the tactic these therapists take is the following: by focusing on the daily 10 minutes of negative behavior, we forget about the other 23hrs.50 min. of the day. To reset our thinking is to reprogram our children's self concept. We give meaning to their successful moments by pointing them out in "snapshot moments" and create success where ever possible. We refuse to get sucked into the negativity and focus fearlessly on the positive moments. By creating feelings of success and continuously giving them real experiences of the qualities we want them to embrace, challenging kids learn to channel their energy in ways that truly benefit them. There are a few more key elements like the quick, neutral time-outs and the credit system which cinch the whole deal. We have seem dramatic improvements in behavior in the beginning weeks of the program. The other day, my intense child gave me a snapshot moment. He said "Hey mommy, I see you there, drawing with your green crayon. You look like you are having fun. You are successfully being peaceful and responsible." Even though we still get some resistance (we're not perfected yet) The positive messages are sinking in.

I think that this book should be a required reading for all adults who live or work with children. ...more

Intuitive and sensible, but something I needed to hear again. Nit-picking the positive rather than the negative; Noticing the good; energizing the desired behavior: whatever you call it, the idea is to shape behavior in a positive and supportive way rather than a domineering and punitive way. Two weeks into this, our 6 year old is reborn. He's brighter, lighter, happier. Funny enough, so am I. Yelling and "correcting" and pointing out mistakes just wears EVERYONE down. We're all more optimistic,Intuitive and sensible, but something I needed to hear again. Nit-picking the positive rather than the negative; Noticing the good; energizing the desired behavior: whatever you call it, the idea is to shape behavior in a positive and supportive way rather than a domineering and punitive way. Two weeks into this, our 6 year old is reborn. He's brighter, lighter, happier. Funny enough, so am I. Yelling and "correcting" and pointing out mistakes just wears EVERYONE down. We're all more optimistic, happy, and peaceful. ...more

Of all the Nurtured Heart Approach books, this is the one I recommend the most often. Most parents can take this book one chapter at a time and learn to apply the approach with even the most difficult children. Even parents who are not into reading can benefit and change the atmosphere of their homes - from chaotic and stressful, to peaceful and loving. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

I am taking this class right now and will go through the workbook on my own. I have seen dramatic changes with my 4 year-old when I remember to implement the principles taught. It's not specific for "difficult children" because, let's be honest, every child is intense in some way and this is a great parenting approach.

I have a 1-year old and 4-year old, and this book is helping. it also seems to work on adult 4-year olds that present themselves to me daily for experimentation. Glasser has a somewhat preachy & annoying style, but smart and effective content.